Aelgari
The Aelgari people originated in the jungles of the Mainland and take pride in their dark skin and their pure lines that supposedly trace back to the first Empress to be inhabited by a goddess.
Naming Traditions
Feminine names
Aelani, Zrai, Safai, Avja, Axan, Loan, Sainka
Masculine names
Saej, Qualti, Tergan, Nalcai, Qaelon, Jasa
Unisex names
Caeli, Sai
Family names
Diaval, Baigala, Neial
Culture
Culture and cultural heritage
The Aelgari culture is a very warlike culture with strict rules that have well-known but unspoken exceptions. Spying and being ruthless is an expected trait for a successful Aelgari citizen.
Shared customary codes and values
Fighting is considered one of the most valuable skills.
Common Dress code
Many colored beads form strands called taejon beads. Taejon beads are an essential part of Aelgari culture. Taejon strands are put in every possible place as traditional decorations.
Hair is tied up, twisted or fluffed out in lots of patterns, braids and buns in order to appear like one has as much hair as possible. Often, this is entwined with many strands of taejon beads.
Clothing is generally very silky and flowing and is dyed with extremely vibrant colors. Gold is also very common and beads are everywhere.
Art & Architecture
They originate in the jungles, so the traditional architecture is rather natural buildings built in the trees. However, stained glass is extremely common, as a statement of wealth and as an emulation of the colorful flowers and fruits of the jungle.
Singing is a common form of art, and throat-singing is traditional.
Common Customs, traditions and rituals
Fighting circles are very common, and they are called Zajan and they are spread across Aelgari cities. Within them are ritual battles between two usually young fighters trying to prove their worth or settle an argument. Each of these battles is dedicated to Ael, Goddess of Righteous War and is thought to purify the soul. There is also a holiday that is dedicated to a tournament of Zajan fights.
Coming of Age Rites
It is traditional to challenge someone to a Zajan fight to come of age. This is usually against another child seeking to become an adult, and although the child comes of age no matter what, the child that wins is considered blessed by the goddess Ael.
Common Myths and Legends
It is said that the Aelgari people were originally seven distinct tribes who were in a constant state of warfare over their jungle territories. Ael, Goddess of Righteous War supposedly came to the youngest warrior of one of the tribes and combined with her soul. This warrior went on to unite the tribes and become the first Empress of the Aelgari Empire. The soul of Ael is still said to reside in whoever is the current Emperor or Empress of the Empire.
Ideals
Beauty Ideals
The ideal is to have huge full curly hair, and extremely dark skin. Generally, strong features and high cheekbones are prized.
Gender Ideals
Women and men are considered to be similar in many ways, and this leads to rather fluid genders.
Courtship Ideals
Official marriages and courtship is usually arranged by the family matron or patron. However it is quite common to have many unofficial relationships before marrying, despite the fact that people are often promised from birth.
Major organizations
The Aelgari Empire is the main location of the Aelgari people. It is traditional to believe in a pantheon of gods and goddesses who meddle in every day affairs.
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